Firefighter's canvas for equal pay

WXIA TV

February 5, 2005

Reported by: Alicia Barnes

Atlanta firefighters returned to the streets Saturday in their fight for equal pay and pension.

Originally, the mayor proposed firefighters get a 1 percent increase. As the proposal stands now, firefighters will get a 3.5 percent increase. Police officers are scheduled to receive 4 percent pay increase.

Firefighters say the difference in pay between police and firefighters is wrong. They feel they should get the same percentage pay increase as police.

"Certainly, a 3.5 percent proposal is better than 1 percent proposal, but our issue is a fundamental issue of equal pay for equal work," David Rhodes said.

On Saturday, firefighters canvassed Atlanta streets in city council districts seven and eight, passing out flyers in an attempt to raise awareness of the issue. Firefighters urged taxpayers to call their councilmen and the mayor and tell them they support equal pay and equal pension.

On Monday, the city council will have a chance to amend the proposed budget that was approved with the 3.5 percent pay increase. The vote on the final budget is scheduled for the regular city council meeting on February 21.

Original Link (click here)